Willie Geist officially becomes part of 'Today'

MSNBC anchor
Willie Geist became a permanent part of the
"Today" show family on Wednesday (Oct. 10).

Geist, who has filled in for
Matt Lauer on the morning show a number of times this year, will co-host the third hour of the show with
Natalie Morales and
Al Roker. He takes the spot
Savannah Guthrie vacated when she moved up to co-anchor the first two hours with Lauer.

"We are thrilled to add Willie to the 'Today' team," executive producer Jim Bell says. "He brings a solid news background with a keen sense of creativity and humor. From politics to pop culture, Willie is a skilled and versatile reporter who will make a great addition at 9 a.m. and contribute to the entire broadcast."

Geist will continue to co-host the first hour of MNSBC's
"Morning Joe" after he joins "Today" on Nov. 12, but he's giving up his 5:30 a.m. newscast
"Way Too Early" on the cable channel. MSNBC is expected to continue "Way Too Early" with a new anchor.